Please note: Responding to a changing environment, the MLIS course offerings and schedules are under constant review. The School of Information Management cannot guarantee the availability of a particular course, and reserves the right to change course schedules when necessary.

Legend

F2F = Face-to-face delivery

O/L = Web-based course delivery

AT = Advanced technology option

Core Courses

MGMT 5000.03 Management Without Borders

This course places management in its broadest context and helps students from diverse disciplines explore the complex social, economic, ecological, political and technological forces shaping 21st century leadership in the public, private and non-profit sectors. The course is characterized by a strong emphasis on teamwork and effective problem solving in inter-professional environments.

The major focus of the course is the MWB group project. Interdisciplinary teams of 5 students will spend the semester working on live projects hosted by organizations from across Nova Scotia. The primary goals of the projects are for the student groups to provide value to the host organization and for the host organization to contribute to the professional and academic development of the students. Additionally, these projects are intended to provide students with the opportunity to experience the complexities of an inter-professional work environment; develop / hone tools and skill sets that are part of various professional disciplines; gain a greater understanding of the issues at hand when organizations work to integrate the seemingly disparate worlds of governance, business, environment and society; and develop leadership and teamwork skills that can be transferred to future work experiences. Weekly tutorial sessions provide student groups with time to consult with faculty coaches, teaching assistants and project groups.

Weekly plenary sessions are synergistically linked to the group projects. The first few plenary sessions of the semester are designed to launches the class and cover key topics related to MWB group projects. The first teaching module focuses on relevant management theory in areas such as collaboration, conflict management, stakeholder engagement and managing innovation and creativity. The second module aims to examine how the aforementioned management theories play out in the context of complex, cross-boundary issues. Plenary lectures are taught by MWB faculty members and guest speakers.

Course Type: Capstone (to be taken in the final year of the MLIS program)

INFO 0590.00 Practicum

In combination with required MLIS course work, the Practicum placement in an information setting is an essential experiential learning element in the school’s curriculum, and a key element in the professional training for information management students. The 100-hour placement enables the student to test and evaluate class theory, to contribute by actual participation, and to explore areas of particular interest for course specialization and future employment. Placements are arranged in consultation with the MLIS Program Coordinator.

INFO 5500.03 Information in Society

Provides an introduction to the economic, political, and social dimensions of an information-rich environment. Includes consideration of the historical development of library and information studies, knowledge production, issues of control versus free flow of information, the social organization of knowledge, and the ethical and legal aspects of information services.

INFO 5520.03 Research Methods

Information professionals require knowledge of formal research processes in order to support the goals of their organization by contributing to evidence-based decision-making. This course introduces fundamental concepts of research, the nature and uses of research, tools and methods (both quantitative and qualitative), handling of evidence, analysis and interpretation of findings, reporting of results, evaluation of published reports, and the practice and management of research.

INFO 5530.03 Information Sources, Services and Retrieval

Offers both a theoretical and a practical introduction to information services. Discusses users and their information-seeking behaviours, major categories of reference resources and how best to match appropriate resources to the user via effective reference interviews. Explores evaluation techniques and uses of reference resources in various formats. Includes strategies of online searching both in specialized databases and on the Web.

INFO 5570.03 Organizational Management and Strategy

Introduces management theories and practices for organizational functions occurring in any type of information setting. Examines elements involved in effective strategic planning, implementation and management including personnel, budgeting, policy writing, and change management. The INFO 5570 capstone is intended to bring synthesis to the whole of the MLIS experience.

Course Type: Core Course; Capstone (to be taken in the final year of the MLIS program)

INFO 5590.03 Information Management Systems

In Information Management Systems we will investigate a wide range of current issues in information technology, information systems, and web-based applications with a particular emphasis on mobile and social media applications and services. We will also explore the principles of user interface design, systems analysis, information needs analysis, information systems requirements and project planning. Finally, we will examine how modern information and communication technologies (ICTs) have been and are changing the way we communicate, collaborate, share information, innovate, perform, socialize and work, and how these technological changes are affecting the role and functions of information managers in the public and private sectors.

Advanced Technology Elective Options

INFO 6270.03 Introduction to Data Science

This course serves as an introduction to data science, an increasingly important set of skills and techniques for business intelligence, effective governance, and the research process. The amount of data we generate increases year on year. As computers have begun to play roles in many aspects of our daily life, our actions and interactions leave digital traces. This has led both to an explosion in the amount of data that we generate and an increased interest in analyzing and understanding that data. This class will give you an introduction to the skills you need to effectively collect, manipulate, and analyze data yourself. Rather than being constrained to using any specific data analysis software, we will focus on using the flexible programming language Python. You will receive a thorough introduction to Python, learning how to use a variety of its built-in capabilities as well as a number of available data analysis packages. By the course’s end you should be capable enough that you will be able to begin teaching yourself and expanding your data science skills.

INFO 6620.03 Web Design & Architecture

Examines the theories, techniques and processes used to create, structure, and deliver electronic text. Topics include writing and design for the web, information architecture, and document analysis for digitization. Focuses on practical experience with HTML and CSS, TEI standards, XML, and XSLT.

INFO 6840.03 Content Management Systems

Introduces the requirements and technologies of networked content management systems. Follows the evolution of the digital content and its impact on information dissemination. Examines issues and trends influencing the development and structure of content management.

INFO 6513.03 Business Analytics and Data Visualization

This course provides an introduction to Business Analytics and Data Visualization. It covers the processes, methodologies and practices used to transform the large amounts of business and public data (referred to as "Big Data") into useful information to support business decision-making. This course will cover basic data models for database management and data warehouses.

Elective Courses

INFO 6070.03 Reading and Reading Practices

This seminar class will examine theories of reading from social, psychological and literary perspectives. The class will discuss literary practices and the evolution of the concept of literacy in an era of cultural and technological change.

INFO 6090.03 Culture of Privacy

This course explores the ever evolving area of privacy. What is the current culture of privacy? What will privacy look like into the future? As a professional, you need to understand the culture of privacy and develop the skills, knowledge, and competencies to apply a privacy filter to your world. Through discussion, readings, and observation this course will provide you an holistic view of the understanding, application, and evolution of privacy.

INFO 6100.03 Information in Public Policy and Decision Making

This course will be team taught be faculty members from the Schools of Information Management, Public Administration, Resource and Environmental Studies, and the Marine Affairs Program. The course addresses the question of how information is used in policy making at local, national, and international levels. While modern policy making prescribes the use of the best available information, evidence-based policy making is relatively new and challenging due to the large quantities of information. This course will examine the role of information, arising from various research domains, in policy decisions, and will give particular attention to the interface between research and policy decisions. The course will draw on research-based case studies to illustrate enablers and barriers affecting the use and influence of information.

INFO 6150.03 History of the Book

Explores the history of the book from its early beginnings to its present manifestations. While greatest emphasis will be placed upon the history of the book from the mid-15th century to the present, the course will also discuss the history of important precursors of mechanical printing, and literacy, books, and manuscripts in the ancient and medieval periods.

INFO 6270.03 Introduction to Data Science

This course serves as an introduction to data science, an increasingly important set of skills and techniques for business intelligence, effective governance, and the research process. The amount of data we generate increases year on year. As computers have begun to play roles in many aspects of our daily life, our actions and interactions leave digital traces. This has led both to an explosion in the amount of data that we generate and an increased interest in analyzing and understanding that data. This class will give you an introduction to the skills you need to effectively collect, manipulate, and analyze data yourself. Rather than being constrained to using any specific data analysis software, we will focus on using the flexible programming language Python. You will receive a thorough introduction to Python, learning how to use a variety of its built-in capabilities as well as a number of available data analysis packages. By the course’s end you should be capable enough that you will be able to begin teaching yourself and expanding your data science skills.

INFO 6300.03 Government Information Resources

This course will examine the ways in which various levels of government structure organize, produce, and disseminate information for a range of internal & external purposes. The emphasis will be on growing digital resources and approaches for accessing these types of material. There will be a focus on Canadian content with additional consideration of American, British, foreign and international resources, including specialized agencies such as the United Nations. The course will include a practical perspective for those seeking employment working with government information resources at provincial and/or federal levels.

INFO 6310.03 Resources for Business Intelligence

Examines the value of information in a competitive environment from the perspectives of various types of business information, cost and management of information, developments on the Internet, and the role of governments. In addition, discerning client needs and packaging of information for client use are considered.

INFO 6330.03 Cataloguing and Classification

Examines the theories, principles, and practices of bibliographic description, including the application of national standards. Covers the description of print and non-print sources, principles and practices of authority work, the application of encoding standards, and the use of bibliographic classification systems. Examines trends and future directions of bibliographic description.

INFO 6370.03 Records Management

A comprehensive introduction to the field of records and information management. Topics covered include: records creation, evaluation, maintenance and control; issues related to the maintenance, storage and disposition of records; and electronic records management.

INFO 6400.03 Knowledge Management

Surveys the latest Knowledge Management theories and practices from information science, management, cognitive/educational psychology and computer science. Focuses on the nature of knowledge construction by examining the identification, capture, application and sharing of organizational knowledge, cognitive techniques and the technological systems that facilitate these processes.

INFO 6450.03 Services and Resources for Children

Examines the reading and viewing interests of children. Topics covered include a brief overview of developmental psychology, the history of children's literature, developing successful library programmes for children and their caregivers, building the children's library collection, and enhancing children's visual literacy.

INFO 6500.03 Community-Led Services

Students will learn how to identify the interests and needs of particular client groups, and how to integrate these needs into the ongoing operations of an information organization. Particular attention will be given to working in the community with vulnerable community members and applying the Community-Led Library Service Model.

INFO 6513.03 Business Analytics and Data Visualization

This course provides an introduction to Business Analytics and Data Visualization. It covers the processes, methodologies and practices used to transform the large amounts of business and public data (referred to as "Big Data") into useful information to support business decision-making. This course will cover basic data models for database management and data warehouses.

INFO 6610.03 Information Policy

Explores, in a graduate seminar setting, a range of issues currently facing information professionals and the effect of these issues on policy development. Discusses the roles of all levels of government, the private and not-for-profit sectors, and key individuals, in developing policies which affect information creation, control, access and use. Focuses on Canadian issues, and includes international affairs as appropriate to the information society.

INFO 6620.03 Web Design & Architecture

Examines the theories, techniques and processes used to create, structure, and deliver electronic text. Topics include writing and design for the web, information architecture, and document analysis for digitization. Focuses on practical experience with HTML and CSS, TEI standards, XML, and XSLT.

INFO 6640.03 Expert Searching for Clients

Explores the principles and methods involved in the retrieval of information from online databases. Topics discussed include the organization and structure of online databases, the formulation of search strategies, the evaluation of the content and search interfaces of online databases, and the management of online search services.

INFO 6681.03 Geospatial Information Management

Spatial Information is the air and water that makes mapping and spatial analysis possible. Mobile applications using maps are some of the most popular and often used web-based applications; they are also cloud based which added another layer of management issues. Maps, GIS and the use of spatial information have never been more popular or public. This course addresses the effective management of spatial information. The course covers principles and practices associated with metadata, GIS, licensing, spatial information databases, map libraries and archives, spatial data infrastructures and web-based delivery of products and services, as well as distributed systems such as geolibraries, ‘digital earth’ and the development of the 'spatial cloud'. This course is geared towards the manager who seeks to deploy services associated with spatial information and effectively develop an enterprise approach to managing spatial information. The course will also provide hands-on experience in using GIS and related technologies so as to be able to better understand how to deploy services, especially over the web.

INFO 6682.03 Human Information Interaction

This course will examine information seeking behaviour in a variety of settings (health care, private and public organizations, academic institutions, etc.), individual and group information seeking and use in these contexts, and the theories and models of information seeking behaviour that explore and explain information behaviour.

INFO 6700.03 Reading Course

Reading courses are intended to add flexibility to your MLIS program by providing you with an opportunity to develop a specific interest in the information management field. A reading course will enable you to study an aspect of a topic in greater detail than is possible within an existing course, or study an area not covered by the curriculum. Reading courses also allow you to conduct a research study or special project.

Course Type: Elective Course

Frequency: Fall, Winter & Summer terms

Pre-requisites: MLIS or combined MLIS degree students, who have completed at least four three-credit graduate-level courses, with a grade point average of 3.3 (B+) or higher, are qualified to consider a reading course. Interested students must make an appointment with the SIM Director prior to embarking on a reading course.

INFO 6710.03 Reading Course

Reading courses are intended to add flexibility to your MLIS program by providing you with an opportunity to develop a specific interest in the information management field. A reading course will enable you to study an aspect of a topic in greater detail than is possible within an existing course, or study an area not covered by the curriculum. Reading courses also allow you to conduct a research study or special project.

Course Type: Elective Course

Frequency: Fall, Winter & Summer terms

Pre-requisites: MLIS or combined MLIS degree students, who have completed at least four three-credit graduate-level courses, with a grade point average of 3.3 (B+) or higher, are qualified to consider a reading course. Interested students must make an appointment with the SIM Director prior to embarking on a reading course.

INFO 6800.03 Archives

Provides an overview of the issues and practices of archival science, with emphasis on Canadian approaches. Considers principles of acquisition, arrangement, description, reference and use of archival records, along with the management of archives and the relationship between archival work and other divisions of the information professions.

INFO 6810.03 Managing Information Literacy Instruction

This course introduces selected theories and methods for managing processes designed to educate students, patrons, and clients in information research skills. Concepts covered relate to the design, implementation, evaluation, and management of instructional programs for a wide array of clients/patrons. Lectures and discussions include relevant theories of learning and a consideration of how these approaches may be effectively managed for client instruction.

INFO 6840.03 Content Management Systems

Introduces the requirements and technologies of networked content management systems. Follows the evolution of the digital content and its impact on information dissemination. Examines issues and trends influencing the development and structure of content management.

INFO 6850.03 Special Topics in Information Management: Managing Research Data

Information professionals are increasingly called upon to support researchers in their efforts to manage the expanding volume, variety, and velocity of research. This course introduces the theory and practice of research data management across multiple disciplines, including data policy, data management plans, data standards, data rescue, and research data services.

INFO 6860.03 Archives II

This course will consider advanced topics in archives, with an emphasis on Canadian practice. It will provide an overview of the management of archives by closely examining topics including donor relations, archival and monetary appraisal, multi-level archival description, project management, and public service.